Your next step in leadership is calling
We all have a unique leadership journey. What we all have in common, though, is that we decided to take our first steps at some point in our lives. For some, others saw them in leadership since they took their first baby steps. Others never imagined they would be called to leadership, yet one day found themselves being looked to to help make decisions for their community.
For Felix, it was showing up one day to talk to a group he had never met before about an issue that was important to him. By the end of this first-ever meeting, he would be elected to become the vice chair of the group. For a teenage Piper, a community member’s encouragement into leadership changed her outlook from isolated and anxious to confident and full of hope.
Regardless of when you start, what’s critical is that your journey begins. That’s why The Alaska Center is proud to have created Rise & Represent Alaska, a boards and commissions leadership program. This program helps both Alaskans just starting out in leadership and those looking to move up the leadership ladder to receive the training to authentically serve on state and local-level public boards and commissions.
The deadline to apply is September 17, 2026.
Authentic leadership isn’t a fad that bigwig politicos just discovered. It’s the way that we show up and care for the communities that make us who we are. We all have our own unique life experience. An authentic leader doesn’t shy away from their own story, but embraces their whole selves.
The vibrant communities which make Alaska so special must be represented among our decision makers. History is riddled with trailblazers who broke glass ceilings and laid a path for us all. All that’s left is to choose to create change for your community, and we at The Alaska Center want to help. Apply by Thursday, September 17 for a spot in our second Rise & Represent Alaska cohort.
The urgency we feel after reading the day’s headlines is real. We need change makers who have the courage to do what’s right for the environment, our democracy, and our community. The most impactful decision-makers have the insight to find the gaps between today’s reality and a world that works better for everyone, and the know-how to not rely on the excuses which maintain the status quo.
Put it all together and it is crystal clear why Rise & Represent Alaska exists. We seek leaders who can serve authentically, uplift the voices left out of our democracy, and the courage to make real change in their communities. If that resonates with you, then there is only one question to ask: Are you ready to take the next step in your leadership journey?
